Stephenson: The Shepherd and the Yodeler for oboe or flute and English horn

Code: JP1111
ISMN: 979-0-3019-0653-8

Shepherds have existed for thousands of years. Where there’s a history of sheep, there’s a history of shepherds. The role of shepherd is one of man’s oldest professions. It was a position often handed down from father to son. Communicating with sheep, a watchful herding dog or a fellow shepherd in the distance required a strong voice, a projecting whistle or even a flute or reed-like instrument.

The music was inspired by “social-distancing” during the Pandemic of 2020 and 2021.  The duet, by Robert Stephenson, tells a musical story about two nomadic wanderers “conversing” over a great expanse. It is an exchange, at first hesitant and lonely, at times songful and solemn, and finally spirited and virtuosic.

The music is scored for oboe or flute and English horn. A full score and individual parts are included in the set. Total duration approximately 6 minutes. Until a recording of this music is available, we have included a digitally produced audio sample for your reference. This includes the opening and the ending of the duo, as scored for oboe and English horn. Click on the "Music Player" icon.

Robert Stephenson has composed another duo for this same instrumental combination, "Balcony Scene". See JP1102.

Click here for more information on Robert Stephenson